Ok, I have to admit it. I am in my mid 30's and am no longer a "kid racer". My past 3 cars have been A/T and I prefer that living in the city.

However..

I want a car with good pickup in the low rpm range, good torque numbers (for decent accel off a stop light), and most definately good passing power on the highway.

Now, coming from the 3000GT's 220hp 6cyl and now the CL-S's 260 6 Cyl, I am really using both of these as a barometer for comparison with my next car. I believe that in order to get the VtEC 4 in the TSX going, you have to be in the high rpm range. Am I correct in this assumption? If this is the case, with A/T this doesn't always translate into a smooth driving experince.

One of the things I liked about the CL (even more than my 3000GT) was low-end torque and confidence instilled by 260 6 cyl power.

As for the TSX being "sportier" than an EX 6cyl, maybe suspension wise. Otherwise, I see the 03 EX Coupe with most of the "features" of my CL (ABS, TCS, Brake dist. system).

So far, I have not been impressed with the "stock" pics of the TSX. Of course, I will not pass total judgement on it until I take a look in a showroom. It may not look as bad in person. It's just that damn 4 cyl auto that makes me not wanna "take a step back" from powerful (220+) 6cyl engines.

Cheers!